Dictionary of Quaker Terms and Phrases (Part 3)

In this Part 3 of my Quaker Dictionary, I conclude this series on terms which are not necessarily self-explanatory. My hope is that Part 1-3 provide a brief reference to help you understand and appreciate the contributions out Quakers ancestors made worldwide.

Rightly Ordered: Those procedures for the conduct of Friends business, that encourage a Meeting to carry out its corporate activities under divine leading.

Seasoning: Taking the time to seek the Light rather than moving into a matter hastily.

Settled: All together under the leading of the Spirit.

Speak to One’s Condition:  The experience of receiving a message directly from God or through another person, that touches another person at a deep, helps one solve a problem or make a right decision.

Standing Aside: An action taken by an individual who has reservations about a particular decision, but who also recognizes the decision is clearly supported by the Meeting.

Standing in the Way: A person who feels a spirit led objection to a decision or proposed action of the Meeting may stand in the way, thus preventing further action.

Stop in the Mind: An expression used by Friends when they feel uneasy and cannot follow a course of action.

A stop: Rather than a leading to do something, a stop is the sense that a Friend should not do something.

Testimony: 1) A positive testimony to God in the case of a deceased friend; 2) A special testimony of concern for a specific matter; 3) A testimony of disownment or disunity; 4) When used as “Testimonies,” this includes the Quaker principles of equality, peace, simplicity and truth.

Thee was favored: The preferred phrase for one Friend to offer another when their ministry has seemed particularly powerful and Spirit filled.

Threshing Session: A Meeting to consider in depth a controversial issue, but in a way that is free from the necessity of reaching a decision.

Travelling Friends: Also called Ministering Preachers or Visiting Preachers would hold gatherings where they would preach of their experience of the inward Christ.Travel(ing) Minute: The endorsement a Meeting gives to one of its members who is traveling under weight of a concern to other Meetings or to the wider world.

Truth: 1) Christ or the divine guide; 2) The Quaker ethical tradition.

Waiting upon God: Actively seeking and attending to God’s will in expectant silent worship.